Before pick-up trucks were allowed for private registration, they were used only for business purposes, usually on construction sites of logging camps. Their main use was transporting things, so seating was needed just for the driver and an assistant. This made the single cab bodystyle more common than the double cab.
As private use of trucks grew and people took their families in them, the double cab became the more common version. The single cab was still around but of interest mainly to businessmen. As demand was low, some companies decided to stop offering the variants (in Malaysia).
However, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) has always included a single cab variant in its Ford Ranger range and with the new generation, this is also the case. While the Ranger Single Cab was not announced earlier, it is now added to the range in the form of the XL 4×4 Single Cab Manual variant.
One of the pleasures that driving enthusiasts enjoy is the ‘music’ from the exhaust of their cars. It can convey emotion and form part of the car’s character, especially with sportscars. Some manufacturers have their engineers spend a lot of time and effort to ensure that the car has a sound unique enough to become an aural signature that signifies the presence of the car near or far.
Generally, the growls or roars have been associated with sportscars but now, Ford is also bringing a new feature to truck owners which will allow them to customise the exhaust sound in various ways. It’s made possible by the new active valve twin exhaust system fitted to the 3-litre twin-turbo V6 engine of the latest Ranger Raptor.
Following the preview of the new Ford Ranger, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) will soon present the next-generation Ranger Raptor to the Malaysian public. The high-performance pick-up truck – only one of its type in the country – will be officially launched soon.
As already demonstrated with the previous generation, the Ranger Raptor sets the benchmark as Asia Pacific’s only purpose-built high-speed off-road performance pick-up truck. Developed with input from Ford Performance, the high-performance division of Ford, the new Ranger Raptor promises to raise the performance bar yet again,
“With its significantly enhanced performance, modern technologies and best-in-class capabilities, the next-gen Ranger Raptor is the definitive king of pickups. Bolder, faster and edgier, this is the ultimate lifestyle enabler for customers to work hard and play harder. Yet it’s safe and comfortable enough with an upscale and roomy interior for family,” said Turse Zuhair, Managing Director, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion-Ford.
Different people will buy a pick-up truck for different reasons but some basic expectations will be good performance, refinement and economical operation. With the next-gen Ford Ranger, these expectations are met in the best way with powertrains for work, family and play.
Two 4-cylinder 2-litre turbodiesel engines are available with the next-gen Ranger – the Single-Turbo and the Bi-Turbo, both well proven and updated as well as compatible with biodiesel.
The Bi-Turbo engine has a clever bypass system that determines the optimum operating mode. Depending on the conditions, the turbochargers can operate in series (at lower engine speeds for enhanced torque and responsiveness) or the smaller turbocharger can be bypassed to allow the larger turbocharger to push more air into the combustion chambers.
The Single Turbo offers 170 ps at 3,500 rpm, with 405 Nm of torque available between from 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. With the more powerful Bi-Turbo, there’s up to 210 ps of power at 3,750 rpm and an impressive 500 Nm of torque generated between 1,750 and 2,000 rpm.
Two 4-wheel drive systems To get all that power to the ground, the next-gen Ranger comes with a choice of two types of 4-wheel drive systems. There’s a conventional ‘part-time’ system with a 2-speed electronic shift-on-the-fly transfer case offering 2H, 4H and 4L modes. Also available is an on-demand 4-wheel drive system (2H, 4A, 4H, and 4L) which allows the truck to be driven in 4-wheel drive on high-traction surfaces like highways via its 4A (automatic) mode. The system intelligently distributes power between the front and rear axles for optimum performance in all on-road conditions.
For additional stability in slippery or rough terrain, the next-gen Ranger continues to be offered with rear differential lock (Ranger WildTrak and XLT Plus). This lock creates a connection between the left and right rear wheels so they rotate at the same speed, helping to get out of a difficult situation off-road. Activation of the rear differential lock is easily done on the SYNC screen in the cabin.
Selectable Drive Modes Making greater use of the computing power on board the next-gen Ranger, there are up to 6 drive modes (depending on the variant) which can make driving over difficult terrain easier. For example, the Slippery mode is for on-road surfaces while the Mud/Ruts and Sand mode is for use off-road.
As in the Ranger Raptor before, the drive modes alter various operating parameters to optimise performance in specific conditions. These cover gearchanges, throttle response, traction and stability controls and the brake system.
In addition to the selectable drive modes, the next-gen Ranger has a special off-road screen on the SYNC4A infotainment system. At the press of a button, the display appears and driveline and diff lock settings, steering angle, vehicle pitch and roll angles, as well as a front camera view with predictive overlay guidelines. With such information, the driver can travel more confidently over challenging terrain.
Tough and protected Going off-road can be punishing for any vehicle with all sorts of obstacles and hazards. This has been kept in mind by the engineers who have designed various protective underbody shields for the next-gen Ranger. These shields protect the steering, sump, transmission and transfer case – critical components that cannot be damaged.
The shields are made from pressed and folded laser-cut steel. The mounting bolts are recessed so they won’t get damaged but can still be easily removed at the service centre. Because the shields are bolted directly to the chassis, they also to the structural integrity of the vehicle.
Small changes, big benefits Although virtually similar in overall size as the previous Ranger, the next-gen Ranger has 50 mm increases in the tracks and wheelbase. These may seem like small changes but they improve stability on as well as off the road.
Drivers will find that they can take on steep slopes more easily with the improved front approach angle increased to 30 degrees (from 28.5 degrees) in the, Likewise, the rear departure angle has also increased by 2 degrees to 23 degrees.
For those worried about climate change bringing more floods, owning the next-gen Ranger could be one way of preparing for such conditions. With a maximum water wading depth of 800 mm (travelling at 7 km/h), the next-gen Ranger will be able to get across many flooded areas easily.
Taking more load Widening the track also allows the designers to widen the cargo bed and offer a more versatile load space. The rear dampers were also moved outboard of the springs which makes for a more controlled ride whether the vehicle is carrying a lot or empty. Depending on the variant and market, the payload capacity is up to 1,000 kgs (1 tonne).
If more stowage space is needed, the next-gen Ranger’s roof can also take up loads of up to 350 kgs static and 85 kgs dynamic. Ford dealers have a range of versatile cargo management solutions to meet different customer needs. These range from adjustable cleats on each side to tray-mounted tie-downs and styled box rails. There are also tailgate clamp pockets and box capping with 6 structural mounting points for after-market accessories.
See the Next-Gen Ranger in East Malaysia The next-gen Ranger will be in showrooms in coming months but before it has its official showroom launch, it will be on display in East Malaysia. Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) will hold previews at Vivacity Megamall in Kuching, on September 7 – 11, and at Suria Sabah Shopping Centre in Kota Kinabalu on October 5 – 9, 2022.
These events will enable you to learn more about the next-gen Ranger (and also book one). If you would like to attend either of these two events, sign up here for an exclusive invitation. Alternatively, you can visit www.sdacford.com.my for more information about the next-gen Ranger, or follow the Ford Malaysia Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube channels.
The next-generation Ford Ranger continues its journey around the country on a series of previews before it officially starts to become a regular showroom display nationwide. After being shown in the Klang Valley, Penang and Johor Bahru, the all-new Ranger will cross the South China Sea to East Malaysia.
Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) will hold previews at Vivacity Megamall in Kuching, on September 7 – 11, and at Suria Sabah Shopping Centre in Kota Kinabalu on October 5 – 9, 2022.
Ahead of its showroom launch, these last two preview events that are part of the nationwide debut tour of 5 regions over 5 weekends for the public to get a first-hand look at the latest generation of Ford’s iconic vehicle.
Those who have received their exclusive event invitation will have a seat at the unveiling ceremony at the events. They will also be able to learn all about the new Ranger through an in-depth presentation. Registrations are open 30 minutes prior to the unveiling ceremony.
Apart from getting close-up to the vehicle, there are also exclusive Ford merchandise items to be won so pay attention to the presentation!
If you want to receive an exclusive invitation, click here to select which of the two venues you would like to go to. Alternatively, you can visit www.sdacford.com.my for more information.
Six versions available There are six versions of the new Ranger available, withprices ranging from RM108,888 to RM162,888. All have double cabs and two versions are available with manual transmissions. A bit later on, the Ranger Raptor will also be imported and we understand that this more hardcore version has already attracted much interest and SDAC-Ford has received many orders.
After conducting more than 5,000 interviews and dozens of customer workshops around the planet, Ford designers had a good idea of what was required and expected from the next-gen Ranger. Customers and owners told them that they wanted a flexible, modern cockpit that would cater to both work and family duties, with smart and connected features and a high level of well-integrated technology.
The result is the smartest Ranger ever, with an enhanced user experience that means owners can transition seamlessly from home or work to their vehicle. With customer focussed technology, the next-gen Ranger pushes the boundaries of what a smart pick-up should be.
Key Technology Features
Digital Display The physical instrument panel that used to house things like the speedometer and tachometer was always limiting in the amount of information it could provide the driver. With the next-gen Ranger, that’s replaced by an 8-inch digital instrument panel that can be customised.
These displays show a start-up and farewell animation and a digital speedometer and tachometer, while the graphics feature realistic body-style avatars. Depending on the variant, the driver can switch between layouts to show additional information like the driver-assist technologies. And for those times when he or she wants to focus on driving, there’s also a ‘calm view’ which minimises the information shown to the minimum necessary for safety.
The panel is also matched to the various on-road and off-road driving models, showing a different theme so the driver knows at a glance what’s been selected. The mode changes also have animations as the driver scrolls from one to the other.
Smarter, Intuitive Connectivity At the heart of the next-gen Ranger’s technology story is the SYNC 4A communications and entertainment system. SYNC 4 brings new levels of connectivity and voice recognition seamless for a personalized driving experience while delivering easy smartphone integration. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto enables favourite apps (eg Waze and Spotify) from compatible smartphones to be transferred onto the display where they can be used.
Big Screen The centrally located infotainment screen is mounted portrait style, with a 10.1-inch or a best-in-class 12-inch size (depending on the variant). The design team chose a large-format tablet screen because it allowed for a good depiction of navigation with room to spare lower down.
Its extra height allows a customisable split-screen set-up with an information-on-demand panel always visible at the bottom of the screen. This displays key information, the user’s connected smartphone and more.
Fewer Buttons, More Capability In line with the digital instrument panel, many of the traditional driving mode controls have been moved from the dashboard and centre console to a dedicated display on the SYNC screen. Depending on the variant, for example, with one button press, the driver can go to Ranger’s dedicated off-road screen where he can monitor the driveline, steering angle, vehicle pitch, roll angles and other controls.
The cabin temperature and ventilation as well as entertainment can be controlled via the SYNC screen too. Additional physical controls mounted just below the screen allow for quick and easy adjustments.
Look All Around The next-gen Ranger is long and large but that’s no issue as a 360-degree camera allows the driver to see all round and even from above with a simulated view. This makes parking easy in tight spots or even when moving over tricky terrain while travelling off-road.
Electric Parking Brake Along with other mechanical elements, the traditional handbrake lever is also gone in the next-gen Ranger Wildtrak. In its place is a first-in-class electric parking brake for a more high-tech feel. Not only does it free up space on the centre console but it also requires very little effort to use (just one finger).
Charged And Ready Always The next-gen Ranger comes with power sockets to charge or supply electricity to many different devices. Compatible smartphones with wireless charging capability can be placed on a charging pad at the base of the centre console, or connected via a cable to a USB port. There are also 12V/240V sockets and a 150W inverter to provide power for laptops and other devices. Depending on the variant, located at the side of the cargo deck, there are 400W and 12V sockets to power camping gear.
With more and more drivers using dashcams to keep a record of their journeys, the designers thoughtfully installed a USB port at the top of the windscreen. It’s located adjacent to the rearview mirror so there’s no cable dangling down. This Type-A USB outlet converts 12V power into 5V USB output suitable for an external GPS or dash camera. It also can be used to charge a smartphone (but isn’t connected to the SYNC 4A system).
Let There Be Light The segment-first Matrix LED headlights (on the Ranger Wildtrak) not only have the high-tech look but also many clever features. These include auto dynamic levelling and speed-dependent lighting that can adjust the intensity of the beam in front of the vehicle depending on the speed at which you’re travelling.
The headlights also offer both static and dynamic bending capability as well as glare-free high-beams, which help block light that could otherwise temporarily blind other drivers and cyclists. That means maximum illumination is provided whenever it is possible without disturbing other road-users.
Join the Debut Tour The next-generation Ranger has been making a debut tour since its first public appearance last month. Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the sole distributor for Ford in Malaysia, is offering previews at a series of events around the country over 5 weekends. These include events in Kuching on September 7 -11 at Vivacity Megamall, and at the Suria Sabah Shopping Centre, Kota Kinabalu on October 5 – 9.
There’s no doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted our lives in different ways. The situation has now become endemic, meaning we have to live with COVID-19 being around, but life can progress to some degree of normalcy.
For many, the pandemic and what was experienced with lock-downs and the fear of being infected would have brought on a re-evaluation of priorities. The quality of life would become even more important and with it, the need to have a true balance of work, family and play.
For driving enthusiasts, that balance would include doing more and going further with whatever vehicle is owned. It can be at work, going off the beaten track on an adventure, or on a leisurely weekend outing with family and other like-minded individuals, or even doing community service.
The next-generation Ford Ranger can be an ideal vehicle for all these activities. It is the smartest, most versatile and capable Ranger yet, an inspiration for a new generation of owners to make their own routes in life and Live the Ranger Life to the fullest.
Here’s a quick overview of the most important things about the next-generation Ford Ranger:
1. A trusted partner for the Ranger way of life
The Ranger was a pioneer in the pick-up segment in Malaysia, transforming what was a basic workhorse machine into an all-round lifestyle vehicle. And as its numbers grew, the community of Ranger owners also grew with shared values and the enthusiasm for life and all that it offers.
The Ranger’s versatility makes it a trusted partner not just for work but also for family and play. It is a single vehicle that can do more – and do it well. When it’s not used for work, it can provide shared experiences through the exclusive Ford Ranger Getaways community and experiential platform.
2. Large infotainment screen with 360o camera view
From the first generation, the Ranger has led with the technology it offers and the next-generation Ranger continues this. Apart from its high-level of well-integrated technology is a multitude of features that include a connective experience with the large first-in-class 12-inch/10,1-inch infotainment touchscreen. The large space on the screen means bigger displays of maps and information, while there’s enough room left at the bottom of the screen for other menus such as climate and entertainment controls. The infotainment system is powered by Ford’s cutting-edge SYNC 4A communication and entertainment system.
Additionally, with the 360o camera on the WildTrak, parking the next-generation Ranger is ‘no sweat’. Whether it’s tight urban spaces, navigating tricky terrain or manoeuvring through narrow streets, the driver can easily see the situation on every side.
3. Digital instrument cluster
The next-generation Ranger has done away with the analogue instrument panel and all information is now presented on a digital display. This not only enhances clarity but also allows for personalisation of information preferred by the driver. Graphics featuring realistic bodystyle avatars are available to suit different moods on each journey.
4. Next-gen safety
Safety is paramount to Ford, whatever type of vehicle it is. The Ranger nameplate has always been a leader in the segment with an array of safety features and advanced driver-assist systems (ADAS) that has expanded and become more advanced.
With the next-generation Ranger, there are more of the latest crash protection features and ADAS (Advanced Driver Assist System). The ADAS features include Evasive Steer Assist, Lane Change Warning and Aid, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and High Beam Assist. This will make the driver feel more secure and confident in every driving situation and enjoy the drive.
5. New interior – like being in a premium SUV
The Ranger changed people’s perception of a truck because it had the same comfort and convenience as a passenger car. With the next-generation Ranger’s redesigned interior and soft-touch materials as well as a more comfortable and spacious cabin than previous models, this is now elevated to give the feeling of being in a premium SUV. Except, of course, you can do more and enjoy more with the capabilities of the ‘Built Ford Tough’ Ranger.
6. Stand out with a bold new exterior
The Ranger has always appealed as a stylish looking truck. It continues this attribute in the next-generation Ranger which has a commanding presence and athletic exterior design. From the pronounced wheel arches and strong horizontal upper grille bar to the unique new C-clamp matrix LED headlights (on selected variants), the next-generation Ranger once again leads in looks.
7. Power and performance
Though looking stylish, the next-generation Ranger has all the capabilities that Ford trucks have been known for. It can work as hard as it plays and for those who use it for work, Ford’s proven 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine is the ideal powertrain to get work done.
There’s also the more sophisticated Bi-Turbo engine with its muscular character that provides maximum power of 210 ps and a whopping 500 Nm of torque. And though it is powerful, it’s also efficient which means good fuel economy as well. A proven 10-speed automatic transmission gives the wide spread of ratios to have a gear for every kind of situation.
Nationwide debut tour
Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) will be organising a nationwide debut tour for the next-generation Ranger ahead of the showroom launch. For an exclusive invitation to a debut event at a city near you, sign up here. You’ll also receive regular updates to keep you informed.
For more information about the next-generation Ranger and full launch schedule, follow the Ford Malaysia Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube channel or visit www.sdacford.com.my.
You’ve been owning a Ford Ranger for some time, or you’re a new owner who’s just joined the world of trucking… do you want to enjoy your truck to the fullest and do more with it than just being able to carry more durians home? Many truck owners may not be fully aware of the potential and features of their vehicle which has been built tough and very capable.
For such owners, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion-Ford (SDAC-Ford) has a special program called ‘Ford Ranger Getaways‘ where Ranger owners can enjoy the outdoor lifestyle trucks permit, and also learn more about using their vehicle in off-road conditions.
Designed for Ranger/Ranger Raptor owners
There are various packages during the year and coming up on March 26 is a 1-day guided session with trained driving instructors covering tarmac and off-road driving scenarios. Held in the district of Sepang in Selangor, it is designed for Ranger and Ranger Raptor owners.
During the session, they will learn valuable tips and tricks on seating and steering methods. They will also have hands-on experience navigating around an autocross course on tarmac, a 4×4 off-road course and a ‘Baja course’ that will showcase the true prowess of the Ranger Raptor, Ford’s performance truck. And to show the high performance of the Ranger Raptor, the participants will be taken around the Baja course with the instructors at high speed. Baja is a region in Southern California where desert races have been held for a long time.
Ranger owners will go through the same modules as the Ranger Raptor experience except for a dirt cornering and drifting course in place of the Baja course and a drifting hot lap with the instructors. Training on both days will begin at 8:30 am from the Sepang International Circuit. A Certificate of Completion will be presented to all participants at the end of the day.
50% discount + 1 companion
Owners can enjoy 50% discount on this Sepang training experience, and each participant can also bring along a companion for free. Interested owners are encouraged to sign up quickly for this one-of-a-kind experience as only limited slots are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
“Thanks to its renowned strength, engineering capabilities, smart technologies and increasingly luxurious cabin and passenger vehicle features, customers are choosing a Ranger not just for work, but also for play and family. With our new brand experiential programme ‘Ford Ranger Getaways’, we aim to provide a platform for owners to uncover the full potential and versatility of their Rangers through a series of handpicked local adventures,” said Turse Zuhair, Managing Director, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion-Ford.
Ford Ranger Getaways
‘Ford Ranger Getaways’ is the latest offering under the new ‘Live the Ranger Life’ brand positioning that encapsulates the values and persona of the Ranger. The Ford truck, introduced in the late 1990s, changed public perception of trucks and introduced a new lifestyle for Malaysians to enjoy.
Open to all Ranger and Ranger Raptor customers, ‘Ford Ranger Getaways’ covers a multitude of interest categories to cater to Malaysians from all walks of life who want short local adventures, be it on their own, with friends and family or for those who simply want to meet like-minded individuals.
Each getaway has been thoughtfully curated to reflect the diversity of the Ranger lifestyle – from fun city outings and outdoor or off-road excursions to foodie trails and even flying a plane over KLCC.
Most people who buy a pick-up truck are the active types who enjoy going out into the countryside and exploring our beautiful country. For those who own a Ford Ranger, there’s now an even better way to enjoy their truck with the ‘Ford Ranger Getaways’. This is new brand experiential programme offered by Sime Darby Auto ConneXion-Ford (SDAC-Ford) for enthusiasts to experience the ‘Ranger Life’with other owners. The program also allows them to discover the potential of the Ranger themselves through specially designed excursions.
An industry first, the programme has been crafted based on customer feedback, which underlined their desire for wanting to network with like-minded individuals, expanding their lifestyle activities to enhance work-life balance, and spending more quality time with family and friends.
There are 15 getaways and each one has been thoughtfully curated to showcase the multiformity of the Ranger lifestyle. These encompass fun city outings and outdoor or off-road excursions to foodie trails, and even flying a plane through Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC)!
There is also a one-of-a-kind on and off-road experience within the vicinity of Sepang which will be held on February 26 for owners of the high-performance Ranger Raptor. Owners of other Ranger variants can also participate on a similar type of event the next day at the same venue.
The programme is also a way for SDAC-Ford to help boost domestic tourism which have been hard-hit by the COVID-19 pandemic and to support as many local businesses as possible. These businesses have been selected for their activities that are aligned with the Ranger Life core values.
The Ford Ranger Getaways will be refreshed from time to time to ensure that they remain interesting. The current getaways on offer are half-day, full-day or overnight trips and prices range from RM98 to RM2,133 per person, depending on the package chosen.
The various Ford Ranger Getaway packages available.
In conjunction with the launch of the Ford Ranger Getaways, owners can enjoy 50% savings for the on and off-road experience which will be held on February 26 and 27. Each participant can also bring along a companion for free. As there are limited slots, acceptance of bookings will be on a first-come, first-served basis.
“Over the years, the Ranger has transformed from a purely utilitarian workhorse and is now leading the pack as a versatile and premium truck that is sought after for work, family and play, whilst maintaining its ‘Built Ford Tough’ DNA. In line with the 5 guiding principles under our new ‘Live the Ranger Life’ brand essence, the Ford Ranger Getaways aims to offer experiences that push the boundaries of what people perceive a pickup truck to be. We also believe that this attracts new customers to our Ford Ranger brand,” said Turse Zuhair, Managing Director of Sime Darby Auto ConneXion-Ford.
Ranger owners can make their bookings from February 5, 2022 onwards by going to SDAC-Ford’s new e-commerce platform at www.sdacford.com.my/shop. Using the online platform, they can select their desired adventure and travel date as well as complete the payment transaction, all from the comfort of their home or office. Confirmation will be sent via email from the time the booking is processed.
Sempena meraikan Ramadan yang telah pun tiba, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), menawarkan penjimatan menarik bagi Ford Ranger Raptor dan WildTrak bermula hari ini hingga 30 April 2021.
Orang ramai boleh menikmati penjimatan RM8,000 bagi model Ranger Raptor dan RM7,000 bagi WildTrak.
“Sebagai model terunggul untuk kelasnya, Ranger Raptor dan WildTrak merupakan lambang trak pikap gaya hidup yang menjadi pilihan para pelanggan yang bijak dan peminat pikap di Malaysia. Dengan tawaran instimewa ini, kami berharap dapat memberikan lebih penjimatan kepada pelanggan pada musim perayaan ini,” jelas Ketua Jualan, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion, Turse Zuhair.
Selain menawarkan ciri premium menerusi sistem suspension Fox Racing Shox, Terrain Management System dengan mod Baja, Ford Ranger Raptor turut menawarkan kuasa 213PS dan 500Nm hasil bantuan enjin 2.0L Bi-Turbo diesel yang dipadankan bersama transmisi 10-kelajuan.
Manakala Ranger WildTrak menawarkan teknologi keselamatan terbaik termasuk fungsi Autonomous Emergency Braking dengan pengesanan kenderaan dan pejalan kaki, Forward Collision Warning dan Lane Departure Warning.
Orang ramai yang berminat boleh menghubungi penjual digital Ford di talian WhatsApp 60192041200 atau layari www.sdacford.com.my
